Bamboozle Meaning and Definition
Bamboozle
Pronunciation
/ˈbɛm.buːzəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A deceptive or misleading action or situation, typically cleverly designed to deceive or manipulate others.
Examples
- The company’s financial reports seemed suspicious, almost like a bamboozle.
- Her convincing act was a bamboozle, making it hard to distinguish truth from fiction.
Synonyms
- Deception
- Trap
Antonyms
- Sincerity
- Truthfulness
Etymology
The word “Bamboozle” originated in the mid-17th century, derived from the name of the musical instrument “Bamboozle,” which was used to deceive or trick people.
Usage Notes
Bamboozle can be used in a variety of contexts, such as describing a suspicious situation, a misleading action, or a clever trick. It is often used humorously or ironically.
Cultural References
The term “Bamboozle” has been used in various forms of media, including literature, music, and film. For example, in the 1997 film “The Big Lebowski,” the character Walter Sobchak uses the term to describe a situation.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Bamboozle the system”
- “Get bamboozled”
Related Words or Phrases
- Deceive
- Trick
- Mislead
Collocations
- Bamboozle someone into doing something
- Bamboozle the authorities
Frequency of Use
Bamboozle is a relatively rare word, but it has gained popularity in recent years due to its versatility and humor.
Common Misspellings
- Bembergle
- Bambuzzle